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Jack Swigert Estate

Here, the Apollo 13 astronauts pose smiling soon after landing safely in the Pacific Ocean on 17 April 1970. And smile they should. This photo captures one of the most incredible feats in space history — and may not have existed — had it not been for the expertise and valor of the astronauts combined with the guidance of countless NASA personnel who helped guide the team safely back to earth.

Two days after launching 11 April 1970, things became harrowing as they were forced into an…